Know all about dermatology

The lowdownA branch of medicine, dermatology deals with the skin and its diseases. This speciality involves both medical and surgical interventions. Dermatologists treat diseases as well as cosmetic problems of the skin, hair, scalp and nails. Nowadays, a lot of dermatologists are branching out to cosmetic dermatology. With the recent advances in lasers and similar procedures, dermatologists today help a number of people with serious skin problems find relief

Clock WorkA dermatologist’s average workday 9am: See patients in OPD/ ward work. Perform surgery. Perform small diagnostic tests for patients. 1.45pm: Grab a quick bite for lunch2-5pm: Work in the clinic for psoriasis, vitiligo and leprosy A cosmetic dermatologist’s average workday at a skin clinic would, however, be different

The payoffIn a Central government hospital, a fresh MD in dermatology makes about Rs50,000 to Rs60,000 (gross salary) per month. A professor/ department head and director earns about Rs1.5 lakh per month. In the private sector, the pay package depends on proficiency as well as on man-hours and is generally upwards of Rs25,000 per month. If you have a private clinic, the money can be very good

Getting thereOpt for science with physics, chemistry and biology in Class 12. Follow an MBBS degree with one of the options: a) a two-year MD programme in dermatology; b) do a house job, clear the primary exam of the National Board of Examination and then take up a three-year DNB programme in dermatology; c) do a house job, earn a diploma in dermatology and then complete a two-year DNB programme. If you wish to do cosmetic dermatology, you can go abroad for short-term certifications.